What is the best sleep pill in the UK?

The best sleep pill in the UK depends on your needs. Circadin is the most effective prescription option for age-related insomnia, while Nytol One-A-Night and Sominex are popular over-the-counter choices for short-term sleep issues.

Can I buy melatonin sleep pills over the counter in the UK?

No, melatonin is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. It cannot be legally sold over the counter. You must speak to a GP to obtain it.

Are sleep pills safe to use regularly?

Sleep pills are generally safe for short-term use but are not recommended for long-term or daily use without medical supervision. Regular use can lead to side effects or dependence.

What is the difference between Nytol and Sominex?

Nytol One-A-Night contains diphenhydramine, while Sominex contains promethazine. Both are antihistamines with sedative effects, but promethazine may last longer in the system.

Are herbal sleep pills effective?

Herbal sleep aids like Kalms Night or Nytol Herbal can be effective for mild sleep disturbances or anxiety-related sleeplessness. They typically contain valerian, hops, or passionflower.

Where can I buy sleep pills in the UK?

You can buy sleep pills in the UK at Boots, Superdrug, Lloyds Pharmacy, and online retailers. Prescription options like Circadin require a consultation with a GP.

Best Sleep Pills in the UK: Ranked and Reviewed for 2025

A woman sleeps on a bed in a cozy knit sweater. A closed book with a white flower lies nearby on white sheets, creating a serene mood.

Struggling to fall asleep or waking up in the middle of the night? You're not alone. Sleep issues affect millions of people in the UK, and for many, sleep aids can offer much-needed relief. But with so many options available—from pharmacy staples to herbal alternatives—how do you know which sleep pills are the most effective and safest to use?

In this guide, we’ve ranked and reviewed the best sleep pills available in the UK in 2025.

Whether you're looking for fast-acting relief or something to help with occasional insomnia, this list will help you make an informed choice.

Top-Ranked Sleep Pills in the UK

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Circadin (Melatonin – Prescription Only)

Best for age-related insomnia and circadian rhythm disorders

Circadin is the only licensed prolonged-release melatonin available in the UK. It mimics your body’s natural sleep hormone and is most commonly prescribed for adults over 55. Studies show it can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve overall sleep quality. Note:

Note: Only available on prescription.

Nytol One-A-Night (Diphenhydramine – OTC)

Best for short-term insomnia and trouble falling asleep

A popular over-the-counter option available at most UK pharmacies, Nytol One-A-Night contains 50mg of diphenhydramine, a sedating antihistamine. It helps users fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Not recommended for long-term use due to next-day grogginess.

Sominex (Promethazine – OTC)

Best for frequent night wakings and prolonged sleep support.

Sominex contains promethazine, another sedating antihistamine. It tends to have a longer half-life than diphenhydramine, which can be good for people who wake frequently during the night. Side effects can include dry mouth and daytime drowsiness.

Kalms Night (Valerian Root – Herbal, OTC)

Best for mild sleep disturbances and anxiety-related sleeplessness

Kalms Night is a traditional herbal remedy made with valerian root. While not as powerful as pharmaceutical options, many users report a noticeable calming effect. Studies suggest valerian can improve sleep quality when taken regularly.

Benylin Night Cough (Diphenhydramine + Levomenthol – OTC)

Best for sleep disruption from colds or nighttime coughing

Though marketed as a cough medicine, Benylin Night contains 14mg of diphenhydramine and often helps people who struggle to sleep due to colds or congestion. Not ideal for routine use.

Nytol Herbal Tablets (Valerian, Hops, and Passionflower – Herbal, OTC)

Best for natural sleep support without pharmaceuticals

For those looking for a non-drowsy natural alternative, Nytol Herbal Tablets combine three plant-based sleep aids. Users often find them effective when taken consistently.

Phenergan Night Time (Promethazine – OTC)

Best for anxiety-induced insomnia and overactive thoughts at bedtime

Phenergan is available without prescription in the UK and contains 25mg of promethazine per tablet. It can induce drowsiness within 20–30 minutes.

Are Sleep Pills in the UK Safe?

Generally, sleep pills available in UK pharmacies or on prescription are safe when used as directed. However, most are only recommended for short-term use due to potential side effects such as:

Daytime drowsiness
Headache
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Dependence (especially with long-term use of prescription Z-drugs)

If you’re using sleep pills more than a few nights a week, speak to your GP.

How to Choose the Best Sleep Pill for You

Occasional stress-related sleeplessness: Try Nytol One-A-Night or Sominex
Mild anxiety or restlessness: Kalms Night or Nytol Herbal
Prescription option: Circadin if melatonin is appropriate for your age and sleep issues
Cough/cold-related insomnia: Benylin Night Cough
Frequent awakenings: Phenergan or Sominex

Avoid mixing multiple sedatives or taking more than the recommended dose. Be especially cautious if you're on other medications or have underlying health conditions.

Where to Buy Sleep Pills in the UK

Boots and Superdrug (in-store and online)
Lloyds Pharmacy
NHS prescription (for Circadin and other medicines)
Amazon UK (for herbal tablets only – melatonin is not legally sold OTC)

Melatonin in the UK: What You Need to Know

Melatonin supplements (like the ones widely available in the US) are not legal to buy over the counter in the UK. Instead, melatonin is available only with a prescription, typically for people aged 55+ or those with sleep disorders under medical care.

Final Thoughts

If you're considering sleep pills in the UK, the best option will depend on the cause and severity of your sleep issues. While over-the-counter remedies like Nytol or Sominex are convenient and effective for short-term use, they’re not meant for long-term treatment. For chronic insomnia, your first stop should be a healthcare provider. They may recommend behavioural therapies or, in some cases, prescribe medications like Circadin.

Always use sleep pills as directed and consult a medical professional if your sleep problems persist beyond a few weeks.

Looking for natural options? Check out our guides to valerian root, magnesium for sleep, and the best herbal teas for bedtime.